Writing - C1 Essay

Introduction:We often hear about the many benefits of health and fitness. However, less often do we hear concrete suggestions for how to improve participation rates, particularly among young people. In this essay I will discuss two possible actions that governments could focus on in order to promote health and fitness to youth today. (main points are briefly introduced.)

Paragraph 1: The first possible action is to improve physical education teaching in schools. Local students have at times complained that... (Describe the first point/argument from the notes)

Paragraph 2: A second option would be to attempt to change the overly competitive attitudes that seem ingrained in many of the sports... (Describe the second point/argument from the notes)

💡 Remember about “linking” in the essay!

You will add more coherence to your essay if you use linking, which you can apply in two ways:

Between paragraphs:

To begin with,

The first possible action is,

A second option would be…

Within a paragraph:

[...] which activity is better than the others. Another reason for not financing sports […]

❓ For and Against or just one side?

There are two approaches you can choose to write your essay professionally.

1. For and against

This is the traditional approach where a writer discusses points in favour of their position and against. Typically this means that one point will be used to contrast the general position. There are advantages to this method.

• Firstly, candidates are often more familiar with it and find it easier to write.
• Secondly, it gives them more scope to use a wider variety of linking words “On the other hand..”, “In contrast…”.

2. One side only

Writing an essay like this means that all points will be commented on one by one and the writer takes a single-minded position. This may limit the language you use somewhat, as it won’t need to convey differences or contrast, but some people may like it.

Conclusion: In summary, either approach would be a step in the right direction. In my view, it would be wise to prioritize dealing with reducing competitiveness first because I believe it would help young people feel better about the sports they already do. They could then, in turn, influence their friends to join in.

Subject:

Your class has attended a panel discussion on facilities which should receive money from local authorities. You have made the notes below:

Which facilities should receive money from local authorities?

• museums
• sports centres
• public gardens

Some opinions expressed in the discussion:

• “Museums aren’t popular with everybody!”
• “Sports centres mean healthier people.”
• “A town needs green spaces – parks are great for everybody.”

Write an essay discussing two of the facilities in your notes. You should explain which facility it is more important for local authorities to give money to, giving reasons in support of your answer.

Student’s CAE Essay Answer:

[Introduction]

Local authorities often have limited budgets, so choosing which community facilities deserve funding can be a challenging task. Among the many options, sports centres and public gardens both offer valuable benefits to citizens. This essay will explore how each of these contributes to society and argue which one deserves priority.

[1st body paragraph]

Sports centres promote physical health, which is increasingly important in a world where sedentary lifestyles are common. Regular exercise helps prevent a range of health issues, from obesity to depression. Additionally, sports centres provide a safe and structured environment for young people, which may help reduce antisocial behaviour. Investing in these facilities can reduce long-term healthcare costs and create a healthier, more active population.

[2nd body paragraph]

On the other hand, public gardens offer a peaceful and accessible space for everyone, regardless of age or income. Green areas improve mental well-being, encourage social interaction, and offer a break from urban noise. Unlike sports centres, gardens do not require membership or special equipment, making them more inclusive. Moreover, green spaces contribute to environmental sustainability by improving air quality and supporting local biodiversity.

[Conclusion]

In conclusion, while both facilities play a valuable role in community life, sports centres should receive funding priority. Their impact on public health and youth engagement makes them a more strategic investment for local authorities, especially when considering long-term social and economic benefits.

Subject:

Your class has attended a panel discussion on the action governments can take to promote health and fitness among young people. You have made the notes below.

Action to promote health and fitness among young people

• improve teaching in schools.
• improves attitudes to competitiveness.
• improve the image of sports.

Some opinions expressed in the discussion:

• ‘There need to be specialist sports teachers for children and students of all ages.’
• ‘Some young people are put off by the pressure to compete.’
• ‘A lot of young people don’t think it’s cool to take part in sports.’

Write an essay for your tutor, discussing two of the actions in your notes. You should explain which action you think is more important, giving reasons to support your opinion.

Student’s CAE Essay Answer:

[Introduction]

We often hear about the many benefits of health and fitness. However, less often do we hear concrete suggestions for how to improve participation rates, particularly among young people. In this essay I will discuss two possible actions that governments could focus on in order to promote health and fitness to youth today.

[1st body paragraph]

The first possible action is to improve physical education teaching in schools. Local students have at times complained that the curriculum is rigid and emphasizes repetitive activities instead of team sports and enjoyment. Better role models and more adventurous options could lead to improved attitude and participation. Naturally, employing specialist sports teachers would incur considerable cost.

[2nd body paragraph]

A second option would be to attempt to change the overly competitive attitudes that seem ingrained in many of the sports competitions for youngsters. When adults such as parents and teachers focus on winning above having a good time, it puts undue pressure on the participants. They may feel a sense of failure if they lose and also be less inclined to try a new sport.

[Conclusion]

In summary, either approach would be a step in the right direction. In my view, it would be wise to prioritize dealing with reducing competitiveness first because I believe it would help young people feel better about the sports they already do. They could then, in turn, influence their friends to join in.